Explores whether self-disclosure in group psychotherapy produces better group outcome. Although the expected positive relationship between the two variables was found, results also indicate a need for caution in postulating a link between self-disclosure and improvement. (BP)

Conjoint therapy requires reciprocal respect of the two therapists as well as each therapist's fidelity to his/her own treatment plan. The patients' difficulties in shifting between group and individual treatment are discussed. A review of the literature and case studies are presented. (BEF)

Discusses aspects of narcissistic rage and shows how unconscious efforts to get back at one's imagined deprivers can be a major expression of that rage as well as a major aspect of masochism. Examples illustrate revengeful operations and the use of group psychotherapy as an ideal treatment mode. (Author/BEF)

Discusses use of alternate sessions, regularly scheduled meetings without the therapist, in analytic group therapy and proposes that opinions should be derived from a theoretical formulation, not in place of one. A decision against the use of alternate sessions is presented by delineating basics of psychoanalytic theory. (Author/BEF)

What constitutes change in family therapy, and how is change to be measured? This paper reviews briefly the methodological issues that these questions raise, and describes a pilot effort to assess the efficacy of a clinic-based family therapy program. (Author)

Describes an abrupt shift from a therapeutic community emphasizing group meetings to a hierarchical medical model on a mental hospital floor. Analyzes the contrast between the two models, compared with the subsequent restoration of the therapeutic community. Clarifies some mechanisms by which groups positively affect disturbed patients. (BP)

The conference, titled "Exploration of Narcissism in Group and Family Therapy," included theoretical and clinical papers, demonstrations of group and family therapy, and small discussion groups after the demonstrations. Papers presented at the conference, along with the discussion, are presented here. (Author)

A group of Puerto Rican female outpatients at a New York State mental health facility underwent group therapy. Through case studies the limitations and growth potential of the group are described. The group's strength was their cultural homogeneity. Drawing on similar pasts and presents, members could communicate with each other. (Author/BEF)

The demands for service and training from a psychiatric department in a large urban medical center frequently necessitate innovative therapeutic maneuvers for which both theoretical understanding and clinical experience are scanty. This paper concerns one such instance. (Author)

Group therapy sessions with parents of profoundly mentally retarded children were implemented for the purpose of dealing with the significance of separation of the child from the family. These children were attending a local pediatric outpatient clinic for evaluation, treatment, and disposition. (Author)

A group of female medical students banded together to deal with what was perceived to be a hostile environment. Co-therapists found the group process was blocked initially in that individuals in the group were unable to share experiences, or to become intimate, and did not develop cohesiveness as a group. (Author)

A structured approach to group therapy was added to an alcoholic treatment program previously offering only unstructured insight-oriented groups. Participants in the interpersonal problem-solving group therapy were generally very active in all sessions. Participants reported actively utilizing their learning after leaving the treatment program, a…

Examines personal, psychological, physical, and social characteristics of persons seeking group treatment for obesity and correlates these variables with their subsequent attendance. The best candidates for continuing in treatment have completed more schooling, have been obese longer, and are less depressed, more self-sufficient, and less…